We should not let AI into art, after all, that’s what we want to do as humans, says restorer Krkošová
Restorer and illustrator Kamila Krkošová discusses the encroachment of artificial intelligence in the creative arts and stresses the importance of human creativity and artistic cultivation.
Kamila Krkošová, a restorer and illustrator from Slovakia, shares her perspective on the increasing role of artificial intelligence in creative fields. She has spent years restoring historical paintings and creating storyboards for film and advertising, and now observes how AI is rapidly taking over a significant portion of these creative tasks. In her conversation, she grapples with the implications of using AI in the arts, particularly the blurred lines between generative outputs that appear flawless and authentic artistic creation. Krkošová emphasizes the necessity of cultivating sensitivity and taste through art, especially for children, who should not only consume art but also learn to create it themselves.
A poignant example she references is an incident from fourteen years ago involving a Spanish retiree who, in good faith but lacking expertise, poorly "restored" a fresco of Jesus in a local church, leading to widespread ridicule. This incident parallels a comedic theme found in Rowan Atkinson’s film "Mr. Bean: The Greatest Film Catastrophe." Krkošová reflects on the responsibilities of a restorer—how to balance necessary technical repairs of artwork while respecting the artist's original vision. This ongoing struggle reveals the diverse methodologies employed in restoration schools, showcasing the complexities involved in the preservation of artistic heritage.
As AI technologies continue to develop, Krkošová anticipates a growing debate over the definition of art and the role of human touch within the creative process. The challenge lies in finding an equilibrium that honors both advancements in technology and the intrinsic value of human expression, prompting discussions about the future of art in an increasingly automated world.